22nd International Autumn Trade Fair: China reinforces lead in regional consumer goods market

• 300 exhibitors to showcase products across 4,000 square metres at the regional consumer goods show from December 9-12 2007 at Dubai International Exhibition & Convention Centre
• Large Chinese presence comes in expanding trade context with exports to the UAE forecast to touch $20bn in 2007

The 22nd edition of IATF from December 9-12 2007 at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (DIECC) will have 300 exhibitors from China spanning 10 trade groups showcasing their goods across 4,000 square metres. IATF 07 is the largest consumer goods show in the region with 800 exhibitors from across the world, 12 per cent more than last year. The expo will be spread over a total of 15,000 square metres.

Commenting on the large Chinese presence at IATF07, Mr. Satish Khanna, General Manager of Al Fajer Information and Services, organisers of the expo, said: "The biggest ever participation by China is indeed a reflection of the increasing trade relations between the UAE and the region in general. In the context of the UAE, China is the single largest exporter to the emirate. According to various to reports, Chinese exports to the UAE are set to be over US$20 billion in 2007 which includes a significant share of consumer goods." The Chinese participation at IATF 07 is lead by China Foreign Trade Guanzhou Exhibition Corp, China Orient Exhibition Company Limited, Shanghai Global Exhibition Co Limited, Sinobal China, China Chamber of Commerce for Foodstuff, among others

Mr. Khanna said IATF 07 has attracted participation from 23 countries and the fair is expected to attract around 17,000 trade visitors.

"IATF has a long history and in the fair has evolved over the years with the trends in the consumer goods industry in the Gulf region. We are confident that this year also IATF will succeed in supporting global companies and trade bodies to enhance their presence in the region."

'Style Hong Kong in Dubai' - the largest expo of Hong Kong products showcased in the Middle East will be part of IATF 07 for the fourth consecutive year on a larger scale. This year the participation will feature 240 exhibitors. 'Style in Hong Kong in Dubai' is being organised under the banner of Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

This year, the fair will host the official national pavilions of six countries, occupying 75 per cent of the 15,000-square metre exhibition space. The national pavilions include 300 exhibitors from China, 240 from Hong Kong, 40 from Singapore, 30 from Korea, 18 from Libya and 7 from Malaysia. Libya is participating for the first time. Other countries participating at IATF07 at individual levels include India, Russia, United Kingdom, Indonesia, Netherlands, Germany, UAE and others.